Forth Valley Sensory Centre

Forth Valley Sensory Centre said ‘thank you’ for volunteering to all our volunteers yesterday with a special garden party. MSP Alison Harris presented long service badges and certificates to a large number of volunteers who went on to enjoy sandwiches and cake as well as garden games.

The event marked the start of Volunteer’s Week (1st to the 8th June) which celebrates volunteering of all kinds across the country. To celebrate the role volunteers play at Forth Valley Sensory Centre, all 50 were invited to a ‘garden party’ thank you event.

Giving thanks for volunteering

Volunteer Co-ordinator Caroline Storey said:
“Forth Valley Sensory Centre is a lifeline for many people, described as a ‘second home’ by people who come along to the groups and classes or receive support and guidance from peers and professionals alike.

“We couldn’t perform this vital role without our volunteers who drive our bus, work in our café, assist with events, fundraise and maintain our garden. Not to mention acting as sighted guides for away days and visits or providing BSL support to make sure we are as inclusive and accessible as possible.

“Thank you all for your hard work and dedication!”

The event was attended by Alison Harris MSP who was delighted to be asked to pass on the certificates of thanks and pin badges recognising some volunteer’s exceptionally long service.

Alison commented:
“I was proud to be able to pass on my personal thanks to all these wonderful volunteers for all they do. To give up your personal time is something precious but being involved with a charity like Forth Valley Sensory Centre is extremely rewarding and it was clear that all the volunteers get so much from the experience.

“Thank you once again, from myself, and everyone at the Centre for volunteering and making a difference to people with sensory loss in our local community.”

Recognising hard work

Ten year service badges were given to; David Black, Gordon McNeil, Christine Moroney, John Ormsby, Gillian Orr, John Preston and Peter Wilson. Five year badges were given to; Rita Balloch, Catherine Carmichael and Lee Russell. The event was supported by Asda who donated cakes and treats and Falkirk Delivers with the loan of candy stripe stalls.

Forth Valley Sensory Centre has active volunteer roles open at the moment, especially for drivers and fundraisers. We are wishing to turn the Edinburgh Kiltwalk into a ‘sensory walk’ and raise £4000 to keep our services running. If you could help and are willing to raise a minimum of £60 then the Centre will pay your entry fee and give you a Forth Valley Sensory Centre t-shirt.